Focus on the eyes

Dr Sonia Khorana discusses non-surgical blepharoplasty

Aesthetic Medicine (AM): Can you tell us about your experience with non-surgical blepharoplasty?

Dr Sonia Khorana (SK): I work at a plastic surgery facility called Kat & Co in Birmingham, where I am the non-surgical lead. While our clinic offers surgical blepharoplasty, my focus is on non-surgical treatments. I work closely with plastic surgeons to provide the best outcomes for patients. A surgical blepharoplasty removes excess skin, but it does not improve skin quality, texture, or collagen. That’s where SmartXide CO2 laser comes in. It enhances skin quality before or after surgery, improving longterm results.

AM: How did you start using SmartXide CO2 laser for non-surgical blepharoplasty?

SK: I’ve been using the SmartXide CO2 laser since my NHS role, though we didn’t use it for cosmetic treatments there. At Kat & Co, I’ve been performing SmartXide Blephs (non-surgical blepharoplasty) for about four years. It’s a powerful tool for addressing skin laxity and improving overall skin health.

AM: Who is an ideal candidate for this treatment?

SK: It’s suitable for all skin types, particularly those with mild to moderate sagging. Patients with significant excess skin may still require surgery but can benefit from laser treatment to enhance skin quality. It’s also a great option for those who want minimal downtime compared to a surgical procedure.

AM: What is the downtime for non-surgical blepharoplasty?

SK: Downtime varies per person, but I generally tell patients to expect five to seven days of recovery. CO2 lasers typically have longer downtimes, but this is still much less than surgery. The SmartXide has unique features that help reduce patient downtime. The downtime of CO2 lasers is still much less than surgery.

AM: Does this treatment align with the trend towards regenerative medicine?

SK: Absolutely. The CO2 laser vaporises the top layer of skin while delivering heat to stimulate collagen production. The result is tighter, rejuvenated skin using the body’s natural healing process.

AM: How long does a session take, and what is the procedure like?

SK: The treatment itself takes around 30 minutes, but I allocate an hour per patient. Before the procedure, patients arrive an hour early to apply a topical anaesthetic. We also use intraocular metal eye shields to protect the eyes, which are inserted with the help of numbing eye drops. Patients often don’t feel them at all.

AM: How many sessions are typically required?

SK: It depends on the degree of laxity. Some patients see excellent results from one session, while those with moderate skin laxity may need two to three treatments, spaced three months apart. Maintenance treatments are recommended every 12 to 18 months.

AM: What are the main benefits of non-surgical blepharoplasty?

SK: The main advantages include:

• Shorter treatment time compared to surgery

• Minimal discomfort

• Faster recovery (typically a week)

• Natural-looking results that improve over time

• Long-lasting effects, with results continuing to improve for up to 12 months.

AM: What kind of training should practitioners seek to perform this treatment?

SK: Training is crucial. Lynton offers excellent training. There are educational videos available on my social media (@DermGP)and Lynton’s social platforms (@Lynton_laser).A CO2 laser is a medical device that requires expertise. Brands should ensure that only medically trained professionals use this equipment, which is essential for patient safety.

AM: What complementary treatments and skincare would you recommend alongside SmartXide Bleph?

SK: I recommend starting on a retinoid and peptide-based cream around the eyes two to three months before treatment. However, patients should stop retinoids a week before and after the procedure. This treatment also pairs well with microneedling, light chemical peels, and polynucleotides for enhanced skin rejuvenation.

AM: Any final thoughts?

SK: Patients should understand that results take time. They’ll see initial improvements within a few weeks, but maximum results appear at the three-month mark and continue improving for up to a year. For long-term maintenance, treatments can be done every 12-18 months.

SmartXide Bleph is an excellent option for those looking to rejuvenate eyes without surgery, making it a valuable addition to any aesthetic practice.